Hiking boots FAQs
We spoke to Scarpa UK managing director Steve Roberts, to get the lowdown on all things hiking boots.
Leather vs fabric boots
“A well-made leather boot has spent a long time (upwards of 24 hours) being moulded on a unique foot shape known as a ‘last’,” Steve explains. “A well-lasted boot will provide a long-term sculpted fit that provides support and function. Leather is a fantastically durable material and easy to care for.”
He adds that fabric boots are usually derived from a hybrid of modern fabrics that are lightweight, instantly comfortable and quick-drying. “Fabric boots usually require an added waterproof membrane, such as Gore-Tex, to provide water resistance,” he says. “They can be more challenging in terms of maintaining performance than an all-leather boot.”
How long will boots take to break in?
“A modern, well-made boot will provide out-of-the-box comfort,” Steve says. “The more supportive the internal midsole and the more supportive the upper will dictate the amount of time the materials will take to optimally mould around your foot. A modern lightweight fabric boot will feel optimum on day one, in contrast, leather will feel comfortable out of the box but will get better and better with more miles.”
How should I look after my new boots?
All boots will benefit from regular cleaning and application of care products – these vary from waxes and creams for leather and paint-on applications for fabric boots. On wet days, Steve recommends that you endeavour to dry your boots as naturally as possible. “Removing the footbed will aid drying, and these can be replaced periodically, to reinstate shock absorption,” he explains.
What should I consider when buying hiking boots?
Steve recommends matching the style of boot you buy to the terrain on which you plan to walk. A mid-cut boot will do for flat trails or coastal paths, but a supportive boot is best for steep hills (particularly when carrying a pack).
The further off the beaten track you are, the more likely you are to encounter wet, muddy, boggy terrain – so, look for a boot with protection and waterproofing/repellency.
Soles tend to match the style of the upper, so, a higher-cut, more supportive boot will also have a more aggressive sole with multidirectional cleats for propulsion and grip.
You will also need to consider which shape is right for you. “Once you have narrowed your choice on an appropriate style, the most crucial selection comes down to the best fit for your foot shape. The best way to do this is to try multiple pairs on at an outdoor specialist store, where you will usually find both a broad selection of styles and expert advice,” Steve says.
If you’re buying in-store, there may also be artificial slopes and terrain samples, so you can get a sense of how your boot feels going up or downhill.
If you buy online, however, consider buying a size larger than your usual shoe. You will want to wear thick hiking socks in your boots, as your feet will expand as the day goes on, and the added weight of a pack increases your toe spread. “If you have to buy online, we would recommend trying a number of pairs and wearing them around the home to ensure you feel entirely happy with your selection before venturing out on that first walk,” Steve explains.
It’s really important to get the fit right because blisters can ruin even the most glorious walk.
The verdict: Women’s hiking boots
There are boots in our round-up to suit all kinds of hikers but our top picks after testing are the Scarpa terra if you’re after a leather boot; AKU’s trekker lite if you like the idea of a fabric boot, and Altra’s Olympus as a go-anywhere all-rounder. If you need a tougher design specifically for trekking or mountaineering, La Sportiva and The North Face have some great mountaineering boots on offer.
Stay dry during hikes, with the best women’s waterproof jackets
